Florida Polytechnic University celebrates opening

By Associated Press

Published On: Aug 18 2014 10:06:15 AM EDT

LAKELAND, Fla. -

The new Florida Polytechnic University is celebrating its inaugural year with several launch events.

The festivities began Friday with a gala at the university's Innovation, Science and Technology Building designed by noted Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. The $60 million building houses the school's labs, classrooms and other meeting areas and features curved awnings and a roof that adjusts to the sun's angle.

On Saturday, the university opened its doors to the public.

The school is the only state university dedicated almost exclusively to training students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The opening comes after nearly three years of political squabbling that culminated with the school's separation from the University of South Florida in 2012. It will open with 500 students, less than half the amount it eventually needs.

Copyright 2014 by The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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